Heart Attack Causes

A heart and vascular risk assessment can help you understand your risk of developing heart disease, which is one of the first steps toward preventing a heart attack. The assessment is a set of tests to check how well your heart and blood vessels are working.

During a risk assessment, your doctor uses imaging technology to look for features such as calcium buildup of plaque on the artery walls and thickened arteries. Your doctor may also check for blockages and other potential signs of cardiovascular disease.

Your doctor may use one of the following imaging tests:

• Cardiac CT – uses computed tomography (CT) to visualize the status of your arteries
• Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) – a type of vascular ultrasound used for risk assessment and to check for blockages in neck blood vessels
• Heart scan and vascular screenings – use CT and ultrasound to assess plaque buildup in your arteries as well as the thickness of your arteries

Other tests and assessments conducted during your risk assessment may include:

• Health history and risk assessment – You will discuss your medical history, lifestyle and any family history of heart disease with a health care provider. This helps identify any personal risk factors.
• Blood pressure check – High blood pressure is a big risk factor for heart disease. Measuring it gives a good sense of how hard your heart is working.
• Blood tests – A simple blood test can measure your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. High cholesterol and blood sugar can raise your risk of heart disease and other issues.
• Heart rhythm test (ECG) – An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be done to check your heart’s rhythm. It is a quick, painless test that looks for irregular heartbeats or signs of past heart issues.
• Ultrasound of blood vessels – In some cases, an ultrasound is used to check for plaque buildup or blockages in your blood vessels, often in the neck or legs. This helps spot any circulation issues that might affect heart health.

We recommend heart and vascular risk assessment for men and women if you have one of the following risk factors (or a family history of) for coronary artery disease:

 

• Current cigarette smoker, especially if you are a heavy smoker
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• High blood pressure or hypertension
• High cholesterol

 

Heart attacks occur most often because of coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that supply your heart with blood (the coronary arteries) narrow over time because of damage from risk factors like cholesterol (plaque) buildup. This process is called atherosclerosis and leads to a restriction of blood flow to your heart.

Restricted blood flow can result in a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when arteries delivering oxygenated blood to your heart become blocked. If blood flow is not quickly restored, this can result in heart damage.

Coronary artery disease is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. and, if left untreated, can lead to a heart attack. Early detection of both atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are critical to managing your heart health.

Living a healthy lifestyle that incorporates good nutrition, weight management and regular exercise can help reduce your heart attack risk.

Know Your Family History

Your family health history gives you a lot of information that can help you and your doctor potentially stay ahead of a heart disease diagnosis. Having a family history of heart disease increases your risk of experiencing a heart attack.

A parent or sibling who has had a heart attack, stroke or heart disease diagnosis before the age of 55 years in a man and 65 year in a woman can indicate a family history of premature (early) heart disease.

There is no one gene that causes a heart attack. Certain genetic variations (mutations) can increase your odds of developing heart disease. Clinical genetic testing can help determine if you have mutated genes putting you at a higher risk.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Smoking significantly raises your risk of heart disease, and excessive alcohol can do the same. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol can protect your heart.

Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This lowers the strain on your heart and reduces risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Eat a balanced diet. Choose a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Try to limit foods high in saturated fats, salt and added sugars.

Stay active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, like brisk walking, swimming or cycling. Physical activity helps keep your heart and blood vessels strong.

Reduce Your Stress

Chronic stress can negatively impact your heart health. Find ways to relax, such as deep breathing, meditation or hobbies you enjoy.

Manage Your Diabetes

Cardiovascular disease contributes to more diabetes-related deaths than any other condition. If you have diabetes, you are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than someone without diabetes. This means it is important to work with your doctor to take steps to manage your diabetes — or prevent it altogether.

Get Regular Care from Your PCP

A crucial part of heart attack prevention includes regular care before you notice any symptoms. Work with your primary-care provider (PCP) for your annual checkups, immunizations and any recommended screenings.

Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Managing these with the help of your health care provider can make a big difference.

Pay Attention to Your Body

You know what's normal for your body and what is not, so you might notice subtle changes first. Let your doctor know if you experience a feeling of pressure or tightness in your chest or arms, feeling unable to catch your breath, sudden dizziness or fatigue,  or other symptoms of a heart attack.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor right away if you have any concerns or questions.